Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Commercial Electrical Services in Cedar Rapids, IA
Founded in 1969, Nelson Electric has evolved from a small residential electrical shop into one of Eastern Iowa's most trusted commercial and industrial electrical contractors. Our journey includes strategic acquisitions that expanded our expertise in design-build projects, low-voltage systems, and specialized electrical services. As a 100% employee-owned company since 2019, we maintain rigorous safety standards and hold industry certifications that demonstrate our technical capabilities.Our in-house CAD team and specialized staffincluding licensed electricians, engineers, and safety professionalsdeliver code-compliant solutions for complex commercial projects. With decades of experience serving Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas, we combine technical excellence with community commitment through partnerships with organizations like United Way and NAWIC.
Services
Electrical Design-Build
Commercial Wiring
Low Voltage Electrical
Telecommunications & Fiber Optics
CCTV Systems
Access Control Systems
Life Safety & Security Systems
Health Care Communications
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- 50+ years of commercial electrical contracting experience since 1969
- In-house CAD team enables full project control from design to completion
- Specialized staff includes LEED Accredited Professionals and NICET-certified technicians
- Proven safety record with dedicated safety director and regular training programs
- Employee-owned company ensuring accountability and long-term client relationships
What people say
Prompt service
Professional staff
On-time delivery
Minimal disruption
Exceptional results
Services
Electrical Design-Build
Our integrated design-build approach delivers complete electrical solutions from concept to completion. With in-house engineering capabilities and CAD specialists, we streamline project timelines while maintaining strict code compliance. This service covers everything from initial system design to final installation for commercial and industrial facilities.
Commercial Wiring
We provide comprehensive wiring solutions for commercial spaces including offices, retail locations, and institutional buildings. Our licensed electricians handle new installations, system upgrades, and maintenance while minimizing operational disruption. All work meets current NEC standards and local code requirements.
Low Voltage Electrical
Our low-voltage expertise covers data communication systems, security infrastructure, and building automation. We install and maintain fiber optic networks, structured cabling, and integrated control systems that support modern commercial operations while ensuring safety and reliability.
Life Safety Systems
We design and implement critical safety systems including emergency lighting, fire alarm integration, and backup power solutions. Our NICET-certified technicians ensure compliance with safety codes while maintaining system reliability for healthcare facilities and industrial operations.
Health Care Communications
Specialized electrical systems for healthcare environments include nurse call systems, medical gas monitoring, and critical communication networks. Our team understands the unique requirements of medical facilities and maintains HIPAA-compliant installation practices.
People
T.J. Meiners
President
Leading Nelson Electric's strategic direction with over two decades of electrical industry leadership experience. Committed to maintaining the company's reputation for technical excellence and community involvement through employee ownership principles.
Jason Aarhus
Safety Director
Brings 20+ years of emergency response expertise as Cedar Rapids Fire Department member. Oversees comprehensive safety programs including field audits, compliance training, and accident prevention initiatives for all electrical operations.
Jim Negro
Project Engineer
Licensed Professional Engineer with specialized expertise in commercial electrical systems. Focuses on technical solutions that balance code compliance with operational efficiency for complex industrial projects.
Macy Schildroth
Office Manager
Manages day-to-day administrative operations with emphasis on client communication and project coordination. Ensures smooth office functions that support field operations and customer service needs.
Dan Long
Director of Construction
Oversees construction layout and project execution with focus on maintaining schedule efficiency. Coordinates between design teams and field crews to ensure accurate implementation of electrical plans.
Questions
What commercial electrical services do you offer?
We provide full-service electrical contracting including design-build projects, commercial wiring, low-voltage systems, life safety installations, and healthcare communication systems for Eastern Iowa businesses.
Do you handle industrial electrical projects?
Yes, we specialize in industrial electrical systems for manufacturing plants and production facilities, including power distribution, control systems, and equipment installation.
Are you available for emergency electrical service?
We offer prompt emergency service for critical electrical issues with 24/7 technician availability to address urgent client needs.
What areas do you serve?
Our primary service area includes Eastern Iowa with focus on Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and surrounding communities for commercial and industrial electrical projects.
Can you handle complex electrical design projects?
Our in-house CAD team and licensed engineers manage complete electrical design-build projects from concept through installation for commercial and institutional clients.
What safety certifications do you maintain?
We maintain rigorous safety standards with OSHA compliance, regular employee training, and a dedicated safety director with emergency response expertise.
